Hi everyone,
Yes, just another thread asking for help and recommendations as a beginner audiophile who just started this journey… !
This is my current setup:
- Headphones: Hifiman H1000 Stealth
- AMP/DAC: Hifiman EF500
- Cable: upgraded to a balanced XLR with Neutrik connector (link from Etsy)
- Plugged to: Macbook Pro M3 Pro (via USB-C)
- I just bought the Chord Mojo 2 to see if it can run the HF H1000 while I am in a different room or just chilling on the sofa…
I mostly listen to music on Tidal (Max), I was happy with Apple Music until I A/B tested against Tidal… I have some DSD files and I have been running the trial for Audirvana but haven’t found it revolutionary/impressive enough, compared to Tidal. Not sure if the current setup is a limitation in that sense…
I live in the UK and I have a budget of £3000.
After some review I have come across a few options:
- AMPs:
- Schiit Midgard
- Vioelectric V-222
- Vioelectric V-340
- DACs:
- Chord Qutest
- RME ADI-2
- All-in-one:
- Burson Conductor GT4 (my 1st choice so far, but scared due to lack of reviews and not seeing much love for the brand, plus overheating and fans).
Other considerations:
- I would prioritise something of good build and a brand with a reputation for longevity of products and craftmanship over the latest tech at the expense of those aspects.
- As I am based in Europe I can’t go for Geshelli Labs, wouldn’t prioritise Schiit either.
- I think I prefer something warm and musical, over something analytical and sterile (no Topping sorry).
- I’d like to move away from Chinese brands such as Topping, SMSL, etc.
- This will be sitting on my desk, hence the Burson is my 1st choice so far (it can go vertical by design).
Any recommendations, guidance, or feedback, coming from experience and not subjectivity will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you all in advance,
Enjoy the music.